Throughout history, great leaders and visionaries have struggled to introduce radical change. Societies resist, the powerful fight back, and uncertainty breeds fear among the masses. Niccolò Machiavelli, one of history’s most pragmatic political thinkers, captured this reality with striking clarity:
“It must be considered that there is nothing more difficult to carry out, nor more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to handle, than to initiate a new order of things.”
Why is change so difficult? What makes new systems inherently fragile and their initiators vulnerable? In this article, we will break down Machiavelli’s observation and explore its relevance in historical and modern contexts.
Context and Historical Background of the Quote
Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian Renaissance political theorist, wrote The Prince (Il Principe) in 1513 as a guide for rulers on how to gain and maintain power. Unlike many philosophers of his time, Machiavelli did not idealize politics. Instead, he analyzed it through a pragmatic and often ruthless lens, arguing that leaders must prioritize effectiveness over morality to ensure stability.
This quote reflects one of his core beliefs: change is inherently perilous, especially when it threatens established power structures. At the time, Italy was fragmented into competing city-states, constantly at war and influenced by powerful foreign forces. Machiavelli witnessed firsthand how new political initiatives often failed, not necessarily because they were unwise, but because they disrupted existing interests.
Many rulers throughout history have encountered these same challenges. Reformers like Julius Caesar, who attempted to restructure Rome’s political system, or Martin Luther, who initiated the Protestant Reformation, faced intense opposition. Even when their ideas gained traction, they often paid a high price—assassination, exile, or public condemnation.
Machiavelli’s words were not just an observation about his time but a fundamental truth about human nature and power dynamics. Change, especially systemic change, is not only difficult but also actively resisted by those who benefit from the status quo.
Why Change Is Difficult and Risky
Introducing a new order of things requires more than just good ideas. It demands strategic execution, widespread support, and the ability to withstand opposition from those who fear losing power. Machiavelli highlights three key reasons why initiating change is one of the most difficult undertakings:
- Resistance from Those Who Benefit from the Current System
Those who hold power have the most to lose. Whether it’s a ruling elite, a wealthy class, or a dominant institution, established powers will fight to protect their interests. This is why revolutionary movements often face harsh suppression, and reformers are frequently labeled as threats rather than visionaries. - Lack of Trust in the New System
Even those who might benefit from change are often skeptical. People tend to be cautious about untested systems, fearing instability. Machiavelli understood that uncertainty makes individuals hesitant to support a new order, even when the existing one is flawed. The fear of the unknown can outweigh the dissatisfaction with the present. - The Complexity of Implementation
Change is not just about vision; it requires execution. Even the most well-intentioned reforms can collapse if they are not carefully planned and implemented. Many leaders who attempt to introduce new systems underestimate the logistical, financial, and social obstacles involved. Without a strong foundation, their initiatives often fail before they even take hold.
These challenges explain why so many reformers throughout history have struggled. Whether it’s a political revolution, a technological advancement, or a social movement, success is never guaranteed. Even when change is necessary, it is rarely easy.
Skepticism Toward the Success of New Orders
One of the biggest obstacles to change is the widespread doubt about its success. Even when a system is broken or ineffective, people are often reluctant to believe that a new order will function any better. This skepticism comes from several key factors.
- Lack of Proof – A new system is untested, which makes it inherently uncertain. People prefer stability, even if imperfect, over uncertainty. They ask themselves: “What if this new system collapses? What if it makes things worse?” Without concrete evidence of success, skepticism prevails.
- Human Resistance to Change – People are creatures of habit. Even when a new order promises improvement, adapting to something different takes effort. Many prefer to stick with familiar routines rather than embrace something that requires adjustment.
- Fear of Transitional Chaos – Changing a system isn’t an instant process. It often involves a transitional period that can be chaotic, unstable, or even dangerous. During revolutions or political transitions, economies can suffer, governments can fall apart, and everyday life can become unpredictable. This makes people hesitant to support change, even if they are dissatisfied with the current state of affairs.
- Historical Failures – People look to the past to predict the future. If previous attempts at reform have failed, they assume the next one will too. Even when leaders propose well-thought-out changes, historical failures cast a shadow of doubt over their plans.
This skepticism is why many reformers struggle to gain momentum. It’s not enough to present a better vision for the future—leaders must also convince people that the new order is worth the risk. This is why Machiavelli emphasizes the difficulty of making meaningful change; even if an idea is brilliant, widespread doubt can prevent it from ever taking root.
Machiavelli’s Political Philosophy – Realism Over Idealism
Machiavelli is often misunderstood as a cynical or ruthless thinker, but his philosophy is better described as realistic rather than pessimistic. He did not believe in ruling based on moral ideals alone. Instead, he argued that leaders must understand power, human nature, and political dynamics if they want to succeed.
His thoughts on initiating a new order align with his broader view that politics is about strategy, not wishful thinking. Idealists believe that good ideas alone can bring change, but Machiavelli knew that success requires careful planning, power management, and, sometimes, ruthless tactics.
There are several key lessons from Machiavelli’s perspective on power and change:
- Leaders Must Be Prepared for Opposition – Those in power will not surrender easily. Reformers need strategies to weaken opposition or turn their rivals into allies. Otherwise, their reforms will be crushed before they even begin.
- Public Support Is Essential, but Not Guaranteed – Even if people stand to benefit from change, they won’t automatically embrace it. Leaders must actively persuade and reassure the public, showing them why the new order is necessary and how it will work.
- Force and Strategy May Be Necessary – Machiavelli is often quoted as saying, “It is better to be feared than loved.” This does not mean that leaders should be cruel, but rather that they must command authority and be willing to take decisive action. If they hesitate, they risk being overthrown before their reforms take hold.
- Change Must Be Gradual or Decisive – Machiavelli recognized two effective ways to introduce change: gradually, so that people slowly adapt and resistance is minimized, or decisively, with strong action that prevents opposition from organizing. A weak, hesitant approach often leads to failure.
Machiavelli’s realism remains relevant today. Leaders who understand power dynamics are more likely to succeed in bringing change, while those who rely on moral persuasion alone often struggle. This is why initiating a new order is so difficult—it’s not just about having the right ideas, but also about executing them in a way that overcomes opposition and skepticism.
Modern Relevance of Machiavelli’s Quote – How Change Works Today
Machiavelli’s insight is not just a historical observation; it applies to politics, business, technology, and even social movements today. The world continues to resist change in similar ways, despite advancements in communication, governance, and economic models.
Political leaders who attempt reforms often face enormous backlash, even when their policies are meant to improve society. Businesses introducing revolutionary products sometimes struggle because consumers hesitate to adopt new technology. Social movements fighting for rights and justice often encounter deep resistance from those invested in the existing system.
Examples of modern-day leaders and movements facing these challenges include:
- Nelson Mandela and the End of Apartheid – Though Mandela successfully led South Africa toward racial equality, his movement faced decades of violent resistance. Many people feared instability, even as they recognized the injustice of apartheid.
- Mihail Gorbachev and the Fall of the Soviet Union – Gorbachev’s policies of Perestroika and Glasnost were meant to reform the Soviet system, but the resistance from within the establishment and the instability they caused ultimately led to the collapse of the USSR.
- Elon Musk and the Electric Car Revolution – When Tesla introduced electric vehicles, many dismissed them as impractical. Large car manufacturers, oil companies, and skeptical consumers resisted, but years of persistence gradually changed the perception.
These examples illustrate that introducing a new order remains just as complex and risky today as in Machiavelli’s time. The key to success is recognizing resistance, preparing for obstacles, and finding ways to convince people that change is not only necessary but also viable.
The Ethical Dilemma of Change – Pragmatism vs. Morality
One of the most debated aspects of Machiavelli’s philosophy is his apparent endorsement of ruthless tactics. He believed that achieving a greater goal often required actions that might seem unethical in the short term. This raises an important question: should leaders prioritize effectiveness over morality when pushing for change?
There are two main perspectives on this issue:
- The Machiavellian Approach – Some argue that when the stakes are high, leaders must use whatever means necessary to succeed. If resistance is strong, gradual persuasion may not be enough, and force or manipulation might be required. Many historical leaders who reshaped the world followed this approach, including military strategists, revolutionaries, and empire-builders.
- The Ethical Leadership Approach – Others argue that true change must be built on moral integrity. If a new system is created through lies, coercion, or violence, it risks becoming just as corrupt as the old one. Ethical reformers aim to inspire people and create change through conviction rather than fear.
This dilemma is seen in many political and business decisions. Is it acceptable for a company to disrupt an industry by using aggressive tactics? Should a government implement necessary reforms even if they cause short-term suffering? The balance between pragmatism and morality remains one of the most complex issues in leadership.
Is Change Worth the Struggle?
Despite the difficulties, history shows that meaningful change is possible. Every major transformation, from the abolition of slavery to the advancement of democracy, has faced resistance but ultimately succeeded because leaders and movements persisted.
For change to be effective, it requires:
- A clear vision – Without a well-defined goal, reform efforts become chaotic and easily opposed.
- Strategic planning – Change must be carefully implemented to minimize resistance and increase the chances of success.
- Strong leadership – Leaders must be resilient and adaptable, knowing when to push forward and when to compromise.
- Public support – Even the best reforms will fail if people are not convinced of their necessity.
Machiavelli’s words remind us that change is never easy, but those who understand its challenges and prepare accordingly have the best chance of success. Whether in politics, business, or society, the struggle for a new order requires patience, strategy, and unwavering determination.